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Tina Chan

Tomohon and Manado Foodie Adventure


Tinu'Tuan Traditional Porridge

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Northern Sulawesi with my grandma, and we were both excited to explore the unique and delicious local cuisine. Our first stop was in Tomohon, where we tried one of the region's most famous dishes: Tinu'tuan. Also known as Manado Porridge, it's a hearty soup made with rice, corn, vegetables, and spices. It was the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, and we both agreed it was delicious.


Next up was Panada, a savory pastry filled with spiced meat or fish. We tried a variety of fillings, including tuna and spicy pork, and they were all fantastic. The pastry was crispy and flaky, and the filling was flavorful.



Manado Babi Panggang Guling is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Northern Sulawesi. This dish is a succulent roast pork belly marinated in a spicy mixture of garlic, ginger, chili, and other seasonings.


One thing that sets Manado Babi Panggang Guling apart from other roast pork dishes is the chili condiments typically served alongside it. These condiments include Dabu-Dabu, a spicy salsa made with chopped tomatoes, chili peppers, and lime juice, and Rica-Rica, a fiery paste made with chili, shallots, and garlic.


The combination of the tender, juicy pork, and the spicy condiments is simply irresistible. It's no wonder that Babi Panggang Guling is one of the most popular dishes in Northern Sulawesi.


By the way, there is a food market known as Tomohon Extreme Market, a popular destination for adventurous foodies looking to try some of the more unusual delicacies of Northern Sulawesi. Here you'll find vendors selling everything from freshly caught fish to exotic meats like bats, rats, snakes, and dogs.


While some may find the idea of eating these animals repulsive, it's important to note that they are a traditional part of the local cuisine in Northern Sulawesi. Many people in this region have been eating these animals for generations, and they are considered a valuable source of protein.


At the market, you'll find vendors selling all kinds of exotic meats, including skewered bat meat, roasted rat, and fried snake. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can even try the local delicacy of dog meat, typically served in a spicy soup.


It's worth noting that the market has received some criticism from animal rights activists, who are concerned about the treatment of the animals sold here. While it's true that the conditions in which some of these animals are kept can be harsh, it's also important to recognize that for many people in this region, eating these animals is a deeply ingrained part of their culture and way of life.


Whether or not you choose to sample any of the exotic meats at the Tomohon Extreme Market is entirely up to you. But for those curious about the unique and fascinating cuisine of Northern Sulawesi, it's certainly an experience worth considering.


By the way, I tried Paniki, and it was the most interesting and memorable meal I've ever had. When I first heard about this traditional dish made from bat meat, I admit I was hesitant to try it. But as I learned more about the local culture and cuisine in Northern Sulawesi, I became more intrigued and decided to give it a go.


The center dish is Paniki

I visited a restaurant in Manado that specialized in Paniki and was served a plate of grilled bat meat that had been marinated in a blend of aromatic spices. The meat itself was quite lean and had a slightly gamey flavor, but the marinade really stole the show. The mix of spices and herbs created a rich and complex flavor that was both savory and slightly sweet, with a bit of a kick from the chili peppers.


As I savored each bite of Paniki, I couldn't help but appreciate the unique culinary traditions of Northern Sulawesi. While the idea of eating bat meat may seem strange or even off-putting to some, for the people of this region, it's a beloved and integral part of their culture.


Throughout our trip, we were continually impressed by the quality and diversity of the food we tried. We sampled everything from spicy stews to fresh seafood; each dish was unique and delicious. We also had the opportunity to learn more about the culture and traditions of Northern Sulawesi, and we found that the food played an essential role in the local customs and celebrations.


Our foodie trip through Tomohon and Manado was an unforgettable experience that we will always cherish. We tried so many new and exciting dishes, and we were blown away by the creativity and passion of the local chefs. If you're a foodie looking for a new culinary adventure, I highly recommend visiting Northern Sulawesi and exploring its many delicious dishes.

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